1 hour ago
1
Yoruba nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has announced that 20,000 volunteers have joined the Iru Ekun Security Network in Oyo State, calling for greater involvement of traditional rulers in community security.
Igboho made the announcement on Sunday during the inauguration of the network at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, where he urged the volunteers to remain committed to protecting their communities.
He described Iru Ekun as an initiative of traditional rulers in the South-West, insisting that the organisation would continue to play a role in promoting peace and security across the region.
According to a statement from his media office, the network has extended its operations beyond Oyo State to other parts of Yorubaland, as well as parts of Kwara and Niger states.
The statement noted that the Ibadan inauguration followed similar exercises in Osun, Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun and Ondo states, alongside consultations with traditional rulers and community leaders.
It added that the organisation had worked with the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to address abductions, killings and other criminal activities, particularly in the South-West.
The announcement comes amid persistent security challenges across Nigeria, including kidnappings and killings, which have heightened calls for stronger collaboration between communities, traditional institutions and established security agencies.
Commending the large turnout at the launch, Igboho said the participation of residents reflected their readiness to contribute to public safety without discrimination based on ethnicity, religion or political affiliation.
“The impressive development represents a milestone which indicates genuine interest of Oyo people in active participation to ensure safety and security of residents, irrespective of tribes, religion and political affiliations,” he said.
Igboho also explained that his recent visit to Abuja was intended to strengthen the network’s security responsibilities. He said the trip followed an invitation he received the previous night and was connected to his collaboration with the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
“I was in Abuja this morning so that Iru Ekun’s security responsibilities can be further strengthened.“
“This is because Iru Ekun is the brain child of South West traditional rulers and it will continue to serve its purpose for the peace and effective security of our communities,” he said.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the trip, he stated: “I received the call last night to come to Abuja. My Abuja trip was as a result of the collaboration with our traditional ruler, the Olubadan of Ibadanland.”
The activist also expressed gratitude to God for what he described as protection against banditry and acknowledged the role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace and security.
“Firstly I want to thank Almighty God who has all powers, owns us, preserves us. The God that says we won’t be overcomed by bandits. We thank God,” he said.
He added: “After that, we thank all traditional rulers in Nigeria and may God grant them a long life.”
Igboho subsequently commended President Bola Tinubu for providing a platform for members of the initiative to meet and pursue their security objectives.
“We are also paying homage to the person, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who provided this platform so that we can interact as Iru Ekun members,” he said.
Addressing the volunteers, he urged them not to be discouraged by those who looked down on their efforts, predicting that their contributions would eventually earn them recognition.
“Some people are still taking a despicable look at you (Volunteers). Soon they will lobby you for positions,” he remarked.
The activist also called on Nigerians, including members of the Iru Ekun Security Network, to support Tinubu’s re-election bid and vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming January presidential election.10 catchy headline suggestions
English (US) ·